Brush Creek Falls
💧 Southern West Virginia’s Largest Waterfall — 30-Foot Cascade in a Gorge Preserve Near Pipestem Resort — A dramatic 30-foot waterfall plunging into Brush Creek Gorge, with easy trail access, Nature Conservancy preserve, wildflowers, and a second waterfall downstream — Mercer County, West Virginia
Brush Creek Falls is the largest waterfall in southern West Virginia — a dramatic 30-foot cascade plunging over a wide ledge into the Brush Creek Gorge, surrounded by hemlock-shaded cliffs and dense Appalachian forest. The falls are managed as part of Pipestem Resort State Park, with the adjacent 124-acre Brush Creek Preserve protected by The Nature Conservancy.
A short, easy trail (about 1/4 mile) leads to the top of the falls, where you can scramble down a steeper path to the base for up-close views of the cascading water. Continue downstream to discover White Oak Creek Falls, a second waterfall about a mile further along the gorge trail. The preserve protects rare wildflowers, cliff formations, and habitat along the Bluestone River.
The Falls
| Feature | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Height | ~30 feet | Largest waterfall in southern WV |
| Trail to Top | ~0.25 miles | Easy, wide gravel path |
| Base Access | Steep scramble trail | Manageable, rewarding views |
| White Oak Creek Falls | ~1 mile downstream | Second waterfall bonus |
What to Do
| Activity | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Waterfall Viewing | 30-ft cascade | Top and base viewpoints |
| Hiking | Gorge trail system | To second waterfall + Bluestone River |
| Nature/Wildflowers | 124-acre preserve | TNC-protected rare habitat |
| Photography | Gorge + falls | Best after rain, morning light |
| Birding | Forest + cliff habitat | Warblers, raptors |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | 48–68°F | Maximum water flow, wildflowers |
| Fall (Oct–Nov) | 38–62°F | Foliage in gorge, dramatic photos |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 68–85°F | Lower flow but accessible, lush green |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 25–42°F | Ice formations on falls |
💰 Trip Cost Estimator
| Expense | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Access | FREE | No entry fee |
| Day Trip | FREE | Waterfall + gorge hike + 2nd falls |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really the biggest waterfall in southern West Virginia?
Yes. At approximately 30 feet, Brush Creek Falls is the largest waterfall in the southern part of the state — a wide, dramatic cascade into a forested gorge.
Can I swim at the base?
Use caution. While people do wade near the base, there are no lifeguards and conditions change with water levels. Exercise extreme care around waterfalls.
Is there a second waterfall?
Yes — White Oak Creek Falls is about a mile further downstream along the gorge trail. It’s worth the extra hike.
💧 Southern WV’s Biggest Waterfall
30-foot cascade in a Nature Conservancy gorge preserve, with a bonus second waterfall downstream — free access near Pipestem Resort.
Wildlife & Nature
Brush Creek Falls — a 25-foot cascade in Mercer County. The falls’ hemlock ravine, rhododendron, and creek support brook trout, salamanders, and songbirds.
Nearby Attractions
Princeton — 15 miles east. Mercer County — surrounding.
Park Location
Top Tours & Activities Near Roanoke
from $235
from $25
from $82